O'Neill paid lip service to not being "held to ransom", but when push came to shove, he showered shit players with gobs of Lerner's money. Lambert's come out and told potential signees to "not be greedy", and I don't think he'll contradict that position...and I say fine by me. This should be a slow build, done with measured moves and patience.
Lambert seems to have the disposition to see the club progress for the long haul, unlike O'Neill, who wanted instant glory. If the club can identify quality players who are willing to accept a lesser wage, at least for a while, I think we're off and running.